Palacio Federal Legislativo Palace

The Palacio Federal Legislativo is the principal legislative building in Caracas and houses Venezuela’s national legislature. It is a central civic landmark in the capital and an established seat of parliamentary activity.

The complex includes formal assembly chambers and grand interior spaces used for legislative sessions and state ceremonies. The Salón Elíptico is one of the building’s best-known interiors and is often highlighted in descriptions of the palace’s interior architecture.

The present legislative complex dates from the 19th century and has been the location for Venezuela’s national legislative institutions through successive republics. Over time the building has hosted congresses, assemblies and official state functions and has undergone restorations to maintain its public and ceremonial spaces.

The palace occupies a prominent site in central Caracas, facing Plaza Bolívar in the city’s historic administrative quarter.

• Location: Faces Caracas’s central Plaza Bolívar and forms part of the capital’s 19th-century civic and government ensemble.
• Architectural highlight: Contains an elliptical ceremonial hall that is one of the building’s most prominent interior spaces and a focus for official events.

What to See#

• Salón Elíptico: An elliptical main assembly hall historically known as the Salón Elíptico, notable as an architectural and ceremonial focal point within the legislative complex.
• Parliamentary chambers: Main parliamentary chambers and adjacent halls used for legislative business and official ceremonies, forming the working core of the building.

• The Palacio Federal Legislativo (National Assembly) is in central Caracas near Plaza Bolívar. The most convenient public-transit access is the Caracas Metro Line 1: get off at Capitolio station and walk a short distance to the legislature building.

• The area is in the civic/administrative heart of the city and is commonly reached on foot or by short taxi ride from nearby central points.

• Check current security conditions and opening hours before you go; the Palacio Federal Legislativo is in central Caracas and access can be restricted during demonstrations or government events.
• Plan weekday visits in the morning and bring photo ID - official buildings often require identification and have controlled entry procedures.
• If you're interested in the architecture or legislative history, time your visit to coincide with guided tours or public visiting hours rather than attempting informal viewing from the surrounding plazas.